The South African Entourage That Could Add To the European Game
Like many African countries, there's a great wealth in football. In terms of skill, ability, the hunger for the game and the pride with which it's played, South Africa is no different.
Looking across the board, you will be find hundreds if not thousands of African players plying their trade in Eastern and Western Europe.
Amongst them you will have found that very few South Africans have made the move abroad, whilst there are many reasons for this, a lack in ability is not one of them.
For many who are born and live on the African continent, life is tough. Growing up in difficult conditions, many live in homes where both parents are working. Many of these youngsters grow up with the dream to one day represent a major European club, the team they have been following on television since a young age.
But breaking into the European league isn't all that easy, as not every player who works hard and hopes to play in Europe can arrive at their goal.
So once many of these players reach a certain age, with the natural talent they possess, they look to immediately escape into a better life—not necessarily neglecting the one they had or have, but looking towards newer opportunities for themselves and their families.
In the case of South Africans, many of whom grew up during the late apartheid era or some of the more recent ones who were lucky enough to miss that period in South Africa's history, they are in many ways more blessed.
Conditions in South Africa compared to many parts of Africa are better, and whilst not perfect, it's still very different to the harsh realities of the struggles in Central Africa.
As these footballers grow into their trade, playing for many local teams in the Premier Soccer League, they are able to guarantee a comfortable life, earning enough to enjoy the comforts and pleasures that many might not have.
For many South Africans having what they have, such a good-enough home, a car and some luxuries to suit their needs, it is in a sense an achievement and in many ways a success. Added is the fact that they are at home and speaking the language they were brought up with, and have been recognised for their efforts.
In my opinion, the idea of them been comfortable has made them less ambitious to make the move to Europe. Well, that was the case in the last couple years, but now having achieved this lifestyle at home, there seems to be a need for many to make that step and play overseas.
With the World Cup having been an added bonus, leaving a lasting legacy and bringing awareness to South Africa as a footballing nation, footballers are been signed with more guarantees, and for the players, they have a sense of belonging.
In this list, we preview a few players who could make the big move from the PSL or other International league to the Europe...
1. Siphiwe Tshabalala
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Name: Lawrence Siphiwe Tshabalala
Age: 26
Current Club: Kaizer Chiefs
Position: Left Winger
If anything, he will be remembered for his thunder strike that saw an entire nation jump on their feet, as he scored the first goal of the World Cup against Mexico in Johannesburg's Soccer City (FNB Stadium).
That goal was nominated for the FIFA Goal of the Year (2010), but unfortunately he fell short as Hamit Altintop won the award.
Nevertheless, Tshaba continues to be one of the most prized assets of South African football. His contribution from set-plays and during play is something really special.
He also plays a huge role for his club, Kaizer Chiefs. Now it seems a move abroad will mark a key part of his career, and that will contain many challenges, ones that he will welcome.
The latest news is that Nottingham Forrest is after his signature, and the Chiefs winger could well be on his way to England on a permanent deal. There was also speculation that he could replace Steven Pienaar at Everton.
Currently Siphiwe is on trials at the City Ground.
2. Itumeleng Khune
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Name: Itumeleng Khune
Age: 23
Current Club: Kaizer Chiefs
Position: Goalkeeper
Another massive player for Chiefs, he has been a rock in goal for the past couple seasons and looks to continue to play a huge role on the National team.
Khune is known for his diving ability and is a great penalty stopper. Recall the match against Spain in the Confed Cup Group stage, when David Villa's penalty was stopped. Spain did go on to score and win the game, however.
Khune also showed his brilliance during the World Cup, when he made numerous saves that got the crowd going crazy.
He has attracted interest from a number of English clubs, but no offers have been made thus far.
3. Teko Modise
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Name: Teko Tsholofelo Modise
Age: 28
Current Club: Orlando Pirates
Position: Midfielder
A season or two ago, he was the hottest property in South African football, but since then his form has dropped considerably, leaving question marks on his future.
Whether he has the ability is not the question—Teko has also performed admirably and brings a sense of relief to the team when in form.
A move away from Pirates, and away from the PSL, is required if he hopes to enjoy his football.
In the past he has had massive interest from European clubs. A move for the unsettled South Africa is still on the cards. Although it would be a risky move by any of the teams that are willing to take a gamble, in my opinion, it's one worth taking.
4. Bongani Khumalo
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Name: Bongani Sandile Khumalo
Age: 23
Current Club: Tottenham Hotspurs
Position: Center-Back
Having made his move this transfer window, Bongani will be hoping to shine under Harry Redknapp for a Spurs team that is showing a great deal of promise.
During the World Cup, he made his name not just in South Africa but around the world, with a goal against France in the third and final group stage match.
He also captained SuperSport United to three consecutive league titles. Now Khumalo will look to fight for a starting spot in the Spurs lineup.
5. Bernard Parker
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Name: Bernard Parker
Age: 24
Current Club: FC Twente
Position: Foward/ Midfielder
The Bafana Bafana front-man is on the cards for a move to Leicester City, and he looks to re-ignite his career.
He is a true sportsman, having excelled in long and short distance running as a youngster and also achieved his colours for Eastern Gauteng in Swimming.
He then went on to the School of Excellence before representing Benoni Premier United, now known as Thanda Royal Zulu.
Bernard has been playing in Netherlands since 2009 and is looking to make his mark in England under Sven-Göran Eriksson.
6. Katlego Mphela
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Name: Katlego Mphela
Age: 26
Current Club: Mamelodi Sundowns
Position: Striker
Having already played in Europe for RC Strasbourg and Stade Reims both in France, he is looking to return after a healthy spell at SuperSport United, and now Sundowns.
Many will remember Mphela for his wonder strike against Spain in the Confed Cup Third/Fourth Play-Off, when he scored a 30-yard free kick that stunned everyone, including Real Madrid's Iker Cassilas.
Partizan Belgrade is amongst the clubs willing to sign the South African. In the middle of last year, Bolton Wanderers and Birmingham City were also interested in his services.
7. Steven Pienaar
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Name: Steven Jerome Pienaar
Age: 28
Current Club: Everton
Position: Winger/Attacking Midfielder
Already having made a name for himself in the English Premier League, Pienaar is now looking to go even further and achieve more with a new club and a new challenge.
Latest news suggests Pienaar could go to either Stamford Bridge as Chelsea's offer has been accepted by Everton, while Spurs have also been given permission to talk to the midfielder.
In the best interest of the player, a move to Spurs would be ideal, looking at the competition for spots on the lineup at Chelsea with the likes of Lampard, Mikel, Malouda, Essien and Ramires to get past.
